Dr. Naresh Thadhani

Biography

Professor Naresh Thadhani is a leading researcher in the fundamental mechanisms of shock-induced physical, chemical, and mechanical changes in materials, focusing on deformation and fracture behaviors under extreme conditions such as high-velocity impact and high strain rate deformation. He has significantly advanced the understanding of shock-induced phase transformations and mechanical properties of various materials including advanced steels, bulk metallic glasses, and additively manufactured materials. His research includes designing and characterizing structural energetic materials and studying interactions of shock waves with heterogeneous materials. Thadhani has built a state-of-the-art laboratory equipped for high strain rate gas-gun and laser-driven impact experiments, which combines mesoscale spatial and temporal diagnostic capabilities with computational simulations. His recent work includes exploring the pressures that induce phase transformations in ferrous and non-ferrous alloys and examining the kinetics of chemical reactions within intermetallic mixtures. Thadhani is also engaged in sustainable manufacturing projects focusing on hydrogen-based direct reduction techniques for iron oxide to produce advanced steels with net-zero CO2 emissions. He has mentored numerous Ph.D. and M.S. students and advised many visiting scientists and post-doctoral researchers, attracting research funding from multiple federal agencies and industries.

Research Interests

Awards